Forest Festival 2003 - 30th August
Still the most successful 'green' family event in Swindon!

Michelle Leighton of Nationwide launches the festival with Celtic international folk band based in Highworth, Wrde

Swindon's fifth Forest Festival is taking shape and getting ready to offer a great day of family fun and entertainment. The event will take place on Saturday 30th August at the Lawn, Old Town, Swindon from 10am-5pm.

Forest Festival is a free event celebrating trees and their products, promoting a greener lifestyle and providing information about the Great Western Community Forest project. It is made possible by the continued support of Nationwide Building Society, who are the main sponsors again this year and also via a South Western Arts Grant. Obviously though, it is the support of the communities in and around Swindon who come to the event each year, which really makes Forest Festival so successful.

A packed programme is promised including musicians and performers who will be ready to entertain the crowds, creating that special atmosphere which is unique to Forest Festival. Basketmakers, woodturners, clog and trug makers, brushes, brooms and rustic furniture makers and a wheelwright have been invited to demonstrate their traditional woodcraft skills. Children can try something new in the many workshops on offer, join in the creation of a giant willow seat sculpture, build a bird box, a clay green man mask or hang their own special leaves on the massive reclaimed scrap timber tree!

Live music also adds to the excitement of the day and this year the line-up is no exception. The variety of bands will ensure there is a sound for everyone, whether you want to tap your toes, dance or just enjoy listening.

Many different local partner organisations will also be on hand to promote green issues and to provide information on how you can get involved and make a difference. You can even bring along your unwanted books to 'recycle' with the Green Dragon Woodland Project who will sell donated second-hand books and use the proceeds to plant and manage woodland, turning words into woods!

There will be so much to do and see that we know you will want to spend a full day. So, why not bring a picnic or try our Forest Café for local wholesome food and refreshments suitable for all age groups and vegetarians too!

Visitors to the event are encouraged to walk, cycle or catch the bus, but for those who do drive, a free park and ride facility operating from Nationwide in Pipers Way, will be running buses to and from the Lawn entrance throughout the day.

www.forestweb.org.uk